ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Inland Tugboat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Orion Group Holdings, Inc.

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Must know the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Be proficient in the use of radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships, tugboats ...

TAS Concrete

Boat Captain

Houston, TX

Must know the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Be proficient in the use of radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships, tugboats ...

Schneider

Boat Captain

Houston, TX

Must know the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Be proficient in the use of radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships, tugboats ...

Orion Marine Group

Boat Captain

Houston, TX

Must know the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Be proficient in the use of radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships, tugboats ...

CNIC Careers

MOTOR VESSEL CAPTAIN

Everett, WA · On-site

$35.90/hr

... tugboat alongside vessels to assist in berthing; 2) Supervising the deck crew in the operation and ... Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Mate of Towing Vessels-Inland with ...

Broussard Brothers Inc

Tug Boat Captain

Abbeville, LA · On-site

... Tugboat and its equipment. As such, he/she is responsible for the conduct of the passengers and ... USCG Master of Towing License for operating towing vessels in inland waters (near coastal ...

Dann Marine Towing

AB Tankerman

Chesapeake City, MD · On-site

$1.2K - $1.7K/wk

Is, a sixth-generation family owned and operated tugboat company, managing a fleet of 24 ocean going tugboats and inland push boats. Our vessels range in horsepower from 1100 H.P. to 6200 H.P. The ...

Dann Marine Towing

AB Tankerman

$1.3K - $1.8K/wk

Is, a sixth-generation family owned and operated tugboat company, managing a fleet of 24 ocean going tugboats and inland push boats. Our vessels range in horsepower from 1100 H.P. to 6200 H.P. The ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsInland Tugboat Jobs

Inland Tugboat information

See salary details

$18

$31

$39

How much do inland tugboat jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for inland tugboat in the United States is $31.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.77 and $34.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a job working on a tugboat?

To work as an inland tugboat operator, candidates typically need a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) issued by the Coast Guard, along with relevant maritime experience and safety training. Prior experience in boat handling, navigation, and knowledge of maritime regulations are important, and some positions may require a towing endorsement or specific certifications. Applying through maritime employment agencies or directly to companies operating tugboats can also help in securing a position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Inland Tugboat position, and why are they important?

To excel as an Inland Tugboat operator, you need strong boat handling skills, a solid understanding of navigation rules, and usually a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with the appropriate endorsements. Familiarity with marine radios, GPS navigation, and safety systems is essential, as is compliance with Coast Guard regulations. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and situational awareness help you respond to changing river or harbor conditions and work efficiently with crew members. These skills ensure safe vessel operation, effective coordination, and adaptability in dynamic inland waterway environments.

What are the typical working conditions for someone in an Inland Tugboat position?

Inland Tugboat operators often work in shifts that can extend for several days, alternating between time on the water and periods off duty, depending on the company and assignments. The job involves working in all types of weather, frequently requiring tasks both inside the wheelhouse and outdoors on deck, handling lines or securing barges. You’ll typically be part of a small, close-knit crew, so strong communication and collaboration are essential for safety and efficiency. While the work can be physically demanding and require long hours, many find it rewarding due to the unique work environment and the camaraderie of the crew. These positions often provide opportunities for advancement into roles with greater navigational responsibility or supervisory duties.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Inland tugboat operators and maritime executives can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with experience, seniority, or ownership stakes. High-paying roles in the maritime industry often require specialized skills, certifications, and extensive experience in navigation, safety, and vessel management.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Inland tugboat captains and senior maritime professionals can earn around $300,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-demand or offshore environments. These roles often require specialized skills, licenses, and long hours at sea. Executive positions in maritime companies may also reach this salary level.

What is an Inland Tugboat job?

An Inland Tugboat job involves operating and maneuvering tugboats on rivers, lakes, and other inland waterways to move barges and other vessels. Crew members typically handle navigation, towing operations, vessel maintenance, and ensure compliance with maritime safety regulations. These positions require teamwork, physical endurance, and knowledge of waterway systems. Depending on the role, licensing from the U.S. Coast Guard may be necessary.

What qualifications do you need to work on a tugboat?

To work as an inland tugboat operator, candidates typically need a valid Coast Guard license or certification, such as a Merchant Mariner Credential with a towing endorsement. Additionally, they should have relevant maritime experience, good navigation skills, and often a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. Physical fitness and the ability to work in a demanding environment are also important.
More about Inland Tugboat jobs
What cities are hiring for Inland Tugboat jobs? Cities with the most Inland Tugboat job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Inland Tugboat jobs? The most popular types of Inland Tugboat jobs are:
What states have the most Inland Tugboat jobs? States with the most job openings for Inland Tugboat jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Inland Tugboat jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Inland Tugboat jobs are:
Inland Tugboat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Inland Tugboat job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,667 per year, or $31.1 per hour.
Offshore Tugboat Captain

Offshore Tugboat Captain

Marquette Transportation Company LLC

Lockport, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

About Marquette:
Headquartered in Paducah, Kentucky and founded in 1978, Marquette is a leading provider of inland marine transportation services. Our Company operates over 130 towboats on the Mississippi River System, Gulf-Intracoastal Waterway, and near-shore coastwise market. In addition, the Company controls over 1,000 dry cargo barges. The Company has additional offices in St Rose, LA, Lockport, LA and La Porte, TX. With over 1,800 vessel and shore-based employees, Marquette is the largest provider of independent towing services within the inland waterways. We are the only fully integrated fleet in the industry that can do what we do.
About Offshore Division:
Marquette's Offshore Division, established in 2007, is dedicated to providing U.S.-flagged tugboat services to meet customer project needs across the Gulf of Mexico, Eastern Seaboard, and Caribbean. Alongside our fleet of tugboats, we offer comprehensive, one-stop solutions specializing in project cargo and dredge support work. We utilize strict safety protocols, detailed planning, and a robust maintenance program to execute our operations. Our fleet consists of nine tugboats ranging from 1,800 to 3,000 BHP (brake horsepower). Despite being a smaller division, Marquette strives to provide a strong, supportive culture that extends through our offices and onboard our vessels. Marquette is truly powered by its people, both on the vessels and shoreside.
Principal Responsibilities
  • Responsible for the safe and efficient operation and performance of his crew, vessel, and tow.
  • The Captain must also strive to see that company policy, rules, and regulations are followed.
  • Must report to the office all violations of policy or violations of federal, state, or local laws.
  • Conducting monthly drills and safety meetings in accordance with policies and procedures.
  • Ensure that work completed in accordance with Company safety policies and practices.
  • Ensure all crew members on vessel receive instruction on how to do jobs properly and monitor performance.
  • Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer.
  • Ensure that each crew member knows the cargo of each barge in tow and has an understanding of any hazards associated with said cargoes.
  • Enforce all Company policies and vessel specific guidelines in support of the Crew Endurance Management System on-board all vessels.
  • Participate in crew management, performance evaluation, general supervisory duties and management of the vessel's budget.
  • Complete required log entries.
  • Maintain radio watch as required.
  • Enforce all rules.
  • Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand.
  • Comply with all established vessel management policies and procedures.
  • Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed.
  • Provide instructions and information to crew members, land-based personnel, and USCG or lock personnel.

Qualifications
  • Retain a USCG Master of Towing Vessels license endorsed for service.
  • Meet USCG physical examination requirements.
  • Be able to travel to and from vessel/training locations via air or car travel (must possess a valid driver's license).
  • Be able to climb steep stairs, sit or stand for long periods of time.
  • Maintain an active TWIC.

Specific Requirements
  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard license, Master or Mate of Towing Near Coastal (Minimum) or Oceans (preferred).
  • 3-5 years of experience in dredge support work, anchor handling, & tow lining barges as Master of Towing coastwise on the US East Coast & Gulf of Mexico.

Expected Hours of Work
  • Schedule is approximately 28 days on and 14 days off.
  • Ability to adapt to a variety of schedules and hours.
  • Willing to take call outs.
  • Ability to work weekends, holidays, evenings, etc.
  • Marquette offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits and a 401k plan.

Marquette offers competitive pay, health, vision, and dental insurance, holiday pay, company paid life insurance, 401(k) plan, and other incentives.
Marquette is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. By clicking the link below, you authorize Marquette Transportation Company, LLC to contact you by any method at the number provided.

Apply